Oliver Minor

Oliver is a fun-loving boy who was born with Down Syndrome, Tetralogy of Fallot and Congenital Hypothyroid Disease. At his young age, he has already been through two open-heart surgeries, and goes to numerous doctors visits on a regular basis. Oliver has difficulty communicating his needs and feelings, which can lead to increased frustration, and occasional aggressive outbursts. He has a hard time in loud, crowded places, and shuts down, often laying on the ground and screaming. Oliver’s parents are heartbroken watching their child experience heightened anxiety, and are hopeful that an Assistance Dog will provide a calm and comforting presence to otherwise stressful situations.

Oliver met DALE, a happy-go-lucky Golden Retriever in December 2019, and they became fast friends! DALE will help Oliver by cuddling during those long doctors appointments, to help comfort him. He will also anchor to Oliver’s anxieties, and interrupt negative behaviors, giving him a place to redirect his attention. We are thrilled to have Oliver and his family as part of our paws4people family!